She gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: “You are the God who sees me,” for she said, “I have now seen the One who sees me.” (Genesis 16:13)
I’ve been spending time studying the Old Testament. My most recent study plans were the Book of Genesis and Exodus. I’ve enjoyed delving deeper into these stories from the beginning of God interacting with mankind.
I’ve had a difficult time with it though – I’ve heard the stories of Abraham, Moses, Jacob, and Noah but not realized how HUMAN they were. We hear a lot about the amazing things they did – all stemming from when God called them to do things for His glory.
At times, they were jerks. They sinned against God and each other. They favored certain children and wives. They lied, drank, ran away from God, and more.
God loved them through it all.
When I read about Sarai and Abram and Hagar, I was confronted with the reality of God’s grace and mercy for us all.
Sometimes I feel alone. Sure, I have kids, a boyfriend, and dear friends, but there are still times that I’m sitting alone in my house or car and I feel disconnected from everything. I feel small & insignificant.
I need to remember that I’m not small & insignificant to God. He sees me. Not just my outside, but God sees my soul. My flawed, weak, sinful soul.
He loves me anyway.
He loves each one of you the same. We are all important to Him – so much so that he allowed His son to die for our sins. He allows us to sin and doubt.
I am constantly humbled by God’s patience and love for us. When I’m frustrated with myself or others, I try to focus on God’s love. I matter. I’m important to God.
There’s no greater blessing than that.
Thank you, Father God, for seeing me. Thank you for loving me no matter what I do. Thank you for your mercy and grace – please help me to remember it and also help me remember to show that same grace and mercy to others. Amen.